Gary Parkinson, managing director, said: "The Vestas decision was disappointing but had nothing to do with the suitability of the site at the Port of Sheerness."

The company said it had been in confidential discussions with several manufacturers over the use of the site and the Port of Sheerness was ready to invest in the infrastructure of the area.

Mr Parkinson added: "Our discussions with leaders in offshore energy and renewables as well as with the government and local authorities have reinforced our conviction that this is a perfect site for manufacture of wind turbines and related activities."

In September, the Sittingbourne and Sheppey MP, Gordon Henderson, said a renewable energy company had shown interest in the Isle of Sheppey.